Applications are now open for the dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026, offering young leaders an opportunity to attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3–6 November 2026. The scholarship supports emerging entrepreneurs making a measurable impact in their communities, driving sustainable solutions for a better future. The application deadline is 23 March 2026.
About the dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship
At dsm-firmenich, the belief that capability comes with responsibility drives their mission to create lasting societal impact. Through the dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation, the organisation empowers communities, supports innovation, and nurtures the next generation of global changemakers.
The foundation offers five young leaders the chance to join the One Young World Summit, a platform connecting youth from across the globe to share ideas, build networks, and drive positive change.
Focus Areas
The scholarship targets entrepreneurs creating impact in one of three critical areas:
- Fighting Malnutrition – Initiatives that address micronutrient deficiencies, ensuring high-quality, nutritious food reaches vulnerable populations.
- Strengthening Community Resilience – Projects that reduce social inequality and improve community capacity to overcome challenges.
- Protecting and Restoring Ecosystems – Efforts that promote climate action, biodiversity conservation, and water system protection to build nature’s resilience.
Applicants’ work should demonstrate measurable impact in these areas, whether at a local, regional, or global scale.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be aged 18–30 (exceptions may be considered for older candidates with significant personal impact).
- Reside in Africa, Asia-Pacific, or Latin America.
- Have 3–5 years of business experience, ideally running their own enterprise.
- Be actively making a positive impact in one of the three scholarship focus areas.
Candidates under 18 at the time of the summit are not eligible. Applications from those over 30 will be considered if they demonstrate initiative, measurable impact, and engagement potential.
What the Scholarship Provides
Selected scholars will receive:
- Full participation at the One Young World Summit 2026.
- Opportunities to network with global peers and industry leaders.
- Exposure to expert mentorship and practical workshops.
- Recognition as a dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation scholar, strengthening professional credibility and visibility.
All associated program costs, including summit registration, travel, and accommodation, are covered for selected participants, ensuring inclusivity and access regardless of financial background.
Application Process and Deadline
Applications for the 2026 cohort are now open. Prospective scholars should submit their online applications, detailing their achievements, impact, and alignment with one of the three focus areas.
The application deadline is 23 March 2026. Successful applicants will be notified following a competitive review process conducted by the foundation and One Young World teams.
A Platform for Global Change
The dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship is more than a summit ticket. It is an opportunity for young entrepreneurs to amplify their impact, exchange ideas with global peers, and access resources that can accelerate their initiatives. By investing in young changemakers, the foundation fosters a new generation of leaders capable of creating sustainable, systemic change in communities worldwide.
Through this scholarship, dsm-firmenich continues its commitment to building a future where innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility intersect, empowering youth to translate ideas into meaningful action.
Application Deadline: 23 March 2026
Summit Dates: 3–6 November 2026, Cape Town, South Africa
Application can be accessed from here.
To know more about such opportunities, click here.
